Want to study teaching and serve in a South African public school? The Funza Lushaka bursary helps deserving students fund a BEd or PGCE in priority subjects — and places graduates where they’re needed most. Below is a clear, practical guide to help you decide fast and apply correctly.
At a glance
- Who it’s for: South African citizens studying a BEd or PGCE in priority subjects.
- What it covers: Tuition, accommodation, meals, books and a monthly allowance (per annual DBE guidance).
- Service obligation: You’ll teach at a public school after graduating (placement arranged through the programme).
- Key dates: Returning students close 30 Nov 2025; New applicants close 24 Jan 2026.
- Age guidance: First-time applicants are generally expected to be 30 or younger.
Why this bursary matters
Funza Lushaka isn’t just a funding scheme — it’s a pipeline to put well-prepared teachers into schools that need them, especially in Mathematics, Science, and key language and foundation-phase areas.
What the bursary typically covers
- Tuition fees for approved BEd/PGCE programmes.
- Accommodation & meals (as per annual guidelines).
- Prescribed books & materials.
- Monthly allowance (value set yearly).
Priority subjects & phases (examples)
Exact priority areas are listed on the official portal each year. Typical examples include:
- FET phase: Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Accounting, Languages, Technology subjects.
- Intermediate/Senior phase: Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Languages.
- Foundation phase: Literacy and numeracy with strong language proficiency.
Eligibility checklist
- South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Meets admission and academic requirements for a BEd (undergrad) or PGCE (postgrad).
- Applying in the correct priority subjects for the phase you want to teach.
- Willing to sign a service-obligation contract and take up placement in a public school after graduating.
- First-time applicants: generally 30 years or younger.
Documents to prepare
- SA ID and recent academic records.
- Proof of admission/registration (or application) for BEd/PGCE.
- Any other documents requested on the portal for your applicant category.
Key dates
Returning students close: 30 Nov 2025. New applicants close: 24 Jan 2026. Always confirm on the official portal as dates and details may change.
How selection and placement work
Applications are reviewed against the programme’s eligibility rules and national subject needs. If you’re awarded, you’ll sign a service contract and, after qualifying, be placed at a public school — often in areas where teachers are most needed. The service period typically aligns with the number of years funded.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing non-priority subjects — check the portal’s list before you apply.
- Uploading uncertified or unreadable documents.
- Missing the correct closing date for your applicant category.
- Ignoring the service-obligation terms — read them carefully before you commit.
How to apply (step-by-step)
- Go to the Funza Lushaka portal and create your profile.
- Start a new application (select the correct intake: returning vs new).
- Complete every field truthfully and match your subjects to the listed priorities.
- Upload all required documents (clear scans; certification where applicable).
- Submit and keep your reference/confirmation details safe.